月: 2022年12月

What Is a Belt Clamp?

A belt clamp is a device used for tightening a window frame, for example, to ensure it maintains its shape after being bonded to the wood.

A belt clamp is used to make a square frame by holding the four corners with corner pads and tightening the belt. They can also be used for various purposes without the corner pads.

The belt clamp consists of a tightening belt, corner pads for securing the four corners, and a handle equipped with a ratchet mechanism.

Uses for Belt Clamps

Belt clamps are very useful when working on crafts, and are used to hold the outer frame of a rectangular workpiece, such as a door or a box.

Belt clamps, with their ratchet-tightening feature, allow for easy and precise fastening, suitable for securing four corners simultaneously. Other clamps secure the workpiece from the top and bottom, enabling only two-point tightening, and are less ideal for rectangular frames.

Furthermore, when the corner pads are removed, the clamp can be used for clamping cylindrical workpieces such as tubs.

Principle of Belt Clamps

Belt clamps are tightened by wrapping the belt around the workpiece, and applying pressure evenly across the entire belt. This differs from the mechanism of ordinary clamps.

Common clamps like vices or C-Clamps are tightened gradually from the top and bottom by screws, suitable for two-point applications such as bonding two parts together.

However, belt clamps are less effective for focusing pressure on only two points, as the belt wrapped around the workpiece tends to disperse clamping pressure. Therefore, they are most effective for applications where the belt evenly distributes pressure across the front of the workpiece.

What Is a Thickness Gauge?

A thickness gauge, also known as a skimming gauge, is a tool designed to measure the size of gaps between objects that are difficult to measure with standard measuring instruments like rulers and micrometers. While calipers are generally used for measuring dimensions, thickness gauges are utilized in situations where calipers are not applicable.

These gauges are particularly useful in scenarios where the size of a gap, such as in a gasket, cannot be determined visually. A thickness gauge consists of multiple thin metal sheets of varying sizes, which are stacked to measure the gap size.

Uses of Thickness Gauges

Thickness gauges are employed to measure gaps in products where calipers and other measuring instruments fall short. The gauge measures the skimmer dimension by overlapping thin metal sheets, known as leaves, of a specific thickness. The leaves in a thickness gauge, standardized in thickness, are typically made of materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, known for their resistance to deformation and corrosion. The appropriate leaf or combination of leaves is selected for measurement based on the skimmer dimension.

Principle of Thickness Gauges

The dimension value is determined by the total thickness of the leaves, which are cleanly lubricated and smoothly inserted into the gap. To verify the accuracy, a leaf 0.01mm thicker than the total thickness is combined with the existing leaves to ensure it cannot be inserted into the skimmer. Caution is advised to avoid forcing the gauge into the gap. Leaf tip shapes come in two types: A-type with a circular tip and B-type with a pointed tip and rounded edge. Leaf thicknesses range from 0.01mm to 3.00mm, with lengths of 75mm, 100mm, or 150mm and a width of 12.7mm. These gauges are available in various leaf thickness combinations and are chosen based on specific requirements. It’s crucial to ensure that the leaves are free from dirt, rust, or scratches before use.

Features of Thickness Gauges

The main feature of a thickness gauge is its ability to measure narrow spaces that cannot be gauged with calipers by overlapping precisely controlled thin plates. A common application is the clearance adjustment between engine camshafts and tappets. Although there are multiple methods for measuring this clearance, analog thickness gauges are still employed in the final check process of modern engines, proving their reliability and value.

What Is Anti-Slip Tape?

Anti-slip tape is a tape that is attached to slippery floors to prevent slips and falls.

Anti-slip tape is sold in various types, such as for striped steel plates, or iron plates with protrusions used for gutter covers, for indoor use, and for outdoor use, depending on the application and place of use.

It is used in places where people are likely to fall, such as factories where powder tends to accumulate, and it is designed not only for human walking but also for wheelchairs to prevent slipping when climbing over steps.

Uses of Anti-Slip Tape

Anti-slip tape, as mentioned above, is often used to prevent falls. Smooth surfaces are easier to clean and look more beautiful than carpets, so smooth floors such as tiles are preferred for building entrances and other places that are easily soiled.

On the other hand, smooth floors have low friction and are very prone to falling, especially when liquid is present, and falls often cause injuries, especially on rainy days. Anti-slip tape is intended to prevent these accidents.

Anti-slip tape may also be applied to stairs and other places where a slip can cause serious injury. Bathrooms in particular are even more slippery than water alone because of the use of soap and other surfactants. Anti-slip tape is used not only outdoors but also indoors to prevent hazards.

Principle of Anti-Slip Tape

Anti-slip tape is mainly plastic tape with hard mineral particles or plastic granules attached to its surface to increase friction.

The surface grains vary depending on the application, but they are firmly bonded with a resin coating so that the particles will not come off when stepped on or when a load or other object passes over them. Similarly, the adhesive strength of the tape applied to the floor is also strong, making it difficult to peel off.

Outdoor use is characterized by high water resistance and strong materials since it is exposed to rain and wind. Some of them allow you to walk without slipping as long as you step on the tape, especially when the floor is covered with oil.

Anti-slip tape of the light-storing type is also available, which releases stored light and glows in the event of a sudden power outage, making it more visible and safer.

Types of Anti-Slip Tape

Anti-slip tape is classified into different types depending on where it is used.

1. Classification by Abrasive Grain

For outdoor use, hard mineral particles are mainly used to prevent slipping, as it is expected to be stepped on or walked on with shoes on. On the other hand, for indoor or bathroom use, soft plastic is often used in consideration of touching with bare hands or bare feet.

2. Classification by Tape Color

Generally, black or gray is used. Depending on the location, some tapes are available in transparent colors to make them less noticeable, and others are available with graphics to alert people to their presence.

Classification by Substrate Material

Anti-slip tape is mostly made of plastic. There is no problem as long as the surface to which the tape is applied is flat. However, if the tape is applied to an uneven surface or striped steel plate, the adhesive surface will lift up. In such cases, the base material is made of aluminum and can be adhered to uneven surfaces.

How to Select Anti-Slip Tape

In most cases, manufacturers sell their products in categories based on the intended use scenario. However, the colors and sizes available may be limited depending on the situation of use.

Although appearance is an important factor, anti-slip tape should be selected by placing the highest priority on the effectiveness and purpose of the anti-slip tape. In particular, if a tape designed for indoor use is used outdoors, it may not be effective enough.

Other Information on Anti-Slip Tape

How to Use Anti-Slip Tape

To apply anti-slip tape, cut the tape to the required length with scissors, peel off the backing paper to reveal the adhesive side, and stick it to the floor. The key point is not to stick only one row of tape, but to stick several rows at a pitch of about 20 cm according to the size of a person’s foot, avoiding the tape and avoiding stepping directly on a wet floor.

In addition, before applying the tape, clean the adhesive surface to prevent it from peeling off, and round the corners to ensure long-lasting effectiveness. Some manufacturers recommend applying a primer to the surface to be affixed beforehand, so prior confirmation is essential.

What Is a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Adapter?

A USB adapter is a device that converts AC power, commonly used in homes, to USB power. The official name for USB is “Universal Serial Bus,” a standard created to unify various port shapes. A USB adapter serves as an intermediary between a USB port and an electrical outlet.

Uses of USB Adapters

USB adapters are a common sight in our daily lives, with two primary functions:

• Charging devices such as cell phones, tablets, and other electronics.
• Facilitating information transfer between electronic devices.

These adapters are affordable and widely available at convenience stores and electronics retailers.

Principle of USB Adapters

Most USB adapters are AC-powered, connecting to a standard electrical outlet. They typically consist of a power outlet, USB port, casing, and an AC-DC converter. The standard outlet is a 100 VAC household type, featuring two power plugs and a hole to prevent disconnection. The common USB port is Type-A, divided internally into four conductors with two at each end for power. The casing, made from resin or other high-insulation materials, protects internal components and prevents electric shock, while the AC-DC converter transforms AC power into 5 VDC. The efficiency and capacity of this conversion depend on the converter’s performance.

Other Information on USB Adapters

1. USB Adapters and Standards

The unification of USB standards has enhanced compatibility and consumer convenience. However, to charge devices such as cell phones, a separate USB cable that converts USB to Micro B, Type-C, etc., is needed. USB standards have evolved with the advancement in information processing speed. The most common type is USB Type-A, used in many PCs, while Type-C has rapidly gained popularity in smartphones and high-end PCs.

2. USB Adapters and Charging Speed

The charging speed of USB adapters depends on their maximum power output. As the USB standard defines the voltage as 5 VDC, adapters with higher current capacity can enable faster charging. However, the performance of these adapters can be affected by the specifications of the USB cable used. Therefore, it’s crucial to check the specifications of both the USB adapters and cables when purchasing.

3. Bus-Powered and Self-Powered USB

USB devices are categorized as either bus-powered or self-powered. Bus-powered devices draw power from a USB port on a PC or similar device and do not require individual power sources. This setup reduces cable clutter but limits the operation of high-power-consuming USB devices. In contrast, self-powered devices require USB adapters and can operate high-power devices like external HDDs, printers, and scanners.

4. Heat Generated by USB Adapters

USB adapters generate heat during AC-DC and voltage conversion. If an adapter becomes deformed or emits a strange smell due to heat, it poses a fire hazard and should be discontinued and replaced immediately.

What Is a Hole Saw?

A hole saw is a tool that attaches to an electric drill or impact driver for drilling holes in materials like wood or thin metal sheets. It features a circular, zigzag blade that faces the target material. The hole saw rotates with the electric drill, drilling holes more quickly than a standard drill. It can create larger holes, up to a maximum diameter of about 60 mm. Since the resulting hole is slightly larger than its diameter, it’s important to adjust the hole size based on the material and other factors.

Uses of Hole Saws

Hole saws are primarily used for drilling into materials such as wood, FRP, iron, and metal plates, including aluminum.

They are crucial in electrical work for drilling holes in metals and other materials, including holes for pulling boxes in exposed piping, cable entry points for power distribution and freestanding boards, and box connectors. Most commonly, they are used for creating entry points for electrical cables.

Hole saws are also utilized in plumbing work, including water and gas piping, as well as air conditioning installation.

Due to their ease of use, they are also popular DIY tools in homes equipped with electric drills.

Principle of Hole Saws

The operating principle of a hole saw is similar to that of an electric drill or impact driver. The circular blade rotates to cut out the target material. A hole saw comprises a die-cast, a blade, and a center drill. To use a hole saw, the appropriate size blade is attached to the die-cast and mounted on the electric drill. The target material is secured, and the hole saw’s center drill is aligned with the hole’s center for cutting. Hole saws are not very thick, making them unsuitable for drilling into boards thicker than 40 mm. It’s important to note that the mounting part differs depending on whether it’s attached to an electric drill or an impact driver.

There are three main types of hole saws:

1. Hole Saws for Woodworking

These are designed for cutting wood and are characterized by their numerous blades.

2. Bimetal Hole Saws

Made of more durable steel compared to woodworking saws, these can cut wood, plastic, and other materials.

3. Carbide Hole Saws

Featuring a thicker blade, these are stronger and capable of cutting through hard metals, including stainless steel and steel plates.

What Is a Screw Pitch Gauge?

Screw pitch gauges are tools designed to measure the pitch, or distance between the threads, of screws. These gauges consist of a set of plates or blades, each marked with different standard thread sizes, allowing for easy identification and measurement of thread pitches. Screw pitch gauges are essential in various fields, including construction, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing, where accurate thread measurements are crucial for ensuring compatibility and functionality of screw-threaded components.

Uses of Screw Pitch Gauges

Screw pitch gauges find applications in several industries, assisting professionals in identifying the thread pitch of screws and bolts. They are particularly useful in settings requiring precise thread measurements, such as in automotive repair, machinery maintenance, and hardware manufacturing. These gauges help prevent mismatches and ensure that components fit correctly, enhancing safety and efficiency in operations.

Principle of Screw Pitch Gauges

The principle behind screw pitch gauges lies in their ability to match the pitch of a screw’s threads with a corresponding blade or plate within the gauge. By placing a gauge blade against the threads of a screw, users can quickly identify the correct pitch by finding the blade that aligns perfectly with the thread peaks and valleys. This simple yet effective method allows for rapid identification of thread sizes, facilitating proper selection and use of fasteners in various applications.

How to Select Screw Pitch Gauges

When selecting a screw pitch gauge, consider the range of thread sizes commonly encountered in your work, ensuring the gauge covers those sizes. Accuracy is also crucial, as precise thread measurement is vital for ensuring component compatibility. Additionally, choose a gauge made from durable materials to withstand frequent use, and consider ease of use, opting for gauges with clear markings and comfortable handling.

What Is a Pipe Cutter?

A pipe cutter is a cutter that can cut hard metal pipes and is indispensable for making pipes.

There are two types of pipe cutter: the rotary type, which is commonly used, and the ratchet type, which is used for cutting PVC pipes. The rotary type requires less force and can cut even hard stainless steel pipes with a light turn, but has the disadvantage that it is difficult to secure the pipes. The ratchet pipe cutter compensates for this disadvantage by firmly securing the pipe to the pipe cutter and cutting it so that there is no misalignment in the cut.

Uses of Pipe Cutters

Pipes are made in various types according to their uses. Vinyl chloride pipes are used for household water pipes, etc., while stainless steel, aluminum, and copper pipes are used for industrial applications. It is difficult to cut these pipes with a saw, and even if it is possible, the cut surface will not be clean. For this reason, pipe cutters are used, which are specialized tools that can cut pipes cleanly.

For example, pipe cutters are used to cut new water and drainage lines for household use using PVC pipes, and for industrial use, when pipes need to be cut to make gas lines such as nitrogen and oxygen lines and raw material supply lines.

Principle of Pipe Cutters

When using pipe cutters, first secure the pipe in a vice to prevent it from moving. Next, both rotary and ratchet pipe cutters are attached to the pipe, and then the pipe is cut.

The pipe cutters has disk-shaped blade, which is rotated along the circumference of the pipe to make a cut in the side wall of the pipe gradually. As the cut becomes deeper, the blade is made deeper to enlarge the cut, and eventually the pipe is cut. The rotary type, as the name implies, rotates around the pipe, so it has a roller on the opposite side of the blade to facilitate pipe rotation. The ratchet type has the same operating mechanism as the ratchet wrench, and the blade rotates around the pipe by moving the handle up and down. This is especially convenient for use in tight spaces because there is no need to rotate the blade in a circular motion as with a rotary type.

Pipe materials range from hard to soft, but when cutting hard materials, the blade will not cut well unless a blade specially designed for hard pipes is used.

What Is a Tube Bender?

A tube bender is a tool or machine designed for bending pipes and tubes, offering precision and efficiency in various industrial and construction applications. These devices enable accurate bending, catering to the specific needs of industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction, where precise dimensions and angles are critical. Tube benders can handle materials like steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, particularly suitable for thin-walled tubes, with options available for thicker walls, such as hydraulic benders.

Uses of Tube Benders

Tube benders are versatile tools used across numerous settings, from infrastructure projects for laying water and gas pipelines to the manufacturing sector for creating automotive parts like exhaust pipes and fuel lines. Their ability to produce precise bends makes them invaluable in ensuring the functionality and safety of various systems and components.

Principle of Tube Benders

The operation of tube benders involves dies, pie bar handles, and frames. Dies, tailored to the pipe’s diameter, shape the tube as the operator manipulates the pie bar handle, engaging the bending process. The sturdy frame supports the mechanism, ensuring stability during bending. Advanced models might incorporate electric or hydraulic systems for enhanced precision and ease of use.

How to Select Tube Benders

Choosing the right tube bender involves considering the driving source — manual, electric, hydraulic — the applicable tube diameter, and the material compatibility. It’s crucial to select a bender that matches the project’s specific requirements, including the type of material being bent and the desired bending capacity, to ensure efficient and accurate bending.

What Is an Alarm Control?

Alarm controls are systems or devices designed to alert individuals to potential dangers or abnormalities through various means, such as loud sounds, email or telephone notifications, or activation of warning lights. These devices are essential in enhancing safety and security across multiple settings by providing critical alerts for crime prevention, disaster response, detection of facility malfunctions, electrical leaks, and wire disconnections, as well as facilitating labor-saving and automated inspections.

Uses of Alarm Controls

Alarm controls are utilized across diverse environments, including homes, factories, buildings, parks, and parking lots, to safeguard against crimes and disasters. They incorporate various detection methods, such as smoke, heat, and gas detectors, to address specific safety needs. These devices not only alert households quickly in case of break-ins but also enhance safety in industrial areas by warning of approaching vehicles or machinery, thus preventing accidents.

Principle of Alarm Controls

Alarm controls operate based on a combination of advanced detection technologies and notification mechanisms. They utilize optical, thermal, acoustic, vibration, chemical, and electrical detection methods to identify potential threats accurately. Upon detection, these systems employ tailored notification methods—auditory and visual alerts, digital messages—to ensure timely and effective communication of detected anomalies to concerned individuals or authorities.

Types of Alarm Controls

Reflecting the wide spectrum of safety and security needs, alarm controls are categorized based on specific functionalities, including fire alarms with integrated smoke and heat sensors for residential safety, burglary alarms employing motion detectors for property security, and specialized alarms such as carbon monoxide detectors, earthquake sensors, gas leak alarms, and water leakage sensors. Each type is designed to mitigate specific risks and provide appropriate warnings to enhance safety measures effectively.

What Is a Safety Cutter?

A safety cutter is a tool used for cutting thin paper, cloth, and sheets.

The most common cause of cutter accidents is cuts caused by blades that are left out. Safety cutters are designed to reduce these cutting accidents.

Ordinary cutters leave the blade out after cutting, but safety cutters prevent accidents by automatically returning the blade to its original position or by not leaving the blade exposed. By using safety cutters suited for the intended use, you can improve the safety and accuracy of your work.

Uses of Safety Cutters

Safety cutters are used in a wide range of fields, from schools, hobbies, and DIY to stores, offices, and professional workplaces.

In stores and supermarkets, in particular, they are often used to prevent unexpected cut accidents when frequent unpacking is required. They are also introduced in schools for the safety of children.

Principle of Safety Cutters

Safety cutters are designed to reduce the risk of cuts caused by the blade. They are designed to minimize blade exposure as much as possible.

In order to reduce the exposure of the blade, there are two types of cutters: those with a blade that automatically returns to its original position and those without an exposed blade.

1. Safety Cutter With a Blade That Automatically Retracts

The safety cutter has a spring attached to the part where the blade is attached, so the blade automatically retracts into the body when the cutting is finished and the blade is away from the object. 

2. Safety Cutter With No Exposed Blade

The blade is housed inside the body and is not exposed, preventing cuts caused by the blade. A slit-shaped depression in part of the body is where the blade is stored. Cutting is performed by sliding the object to be cut into the slit.

In addition to “reducing blade exposure,” safety cutter blades have a single blade. When the blade of an ordinary cutter is worn out, the tip of the blade is broken off and replaced with a new one, but the blade of the safety cutter is a single blade. By eliminating the need to break the blade, it reduces the number of accidents that can occur when the blade is broken, and prevents unexpected accidents caused by excessive blade protrusion. It also reduces the risk of blade breakage and contamination.

Types of Safety Cutters

1. Spring Type

A spring is built into the body of the cutter, which automatically retracts the blade into the body when the blade is separated from the object to be cut.

2. Hook Type

This type of cutter has a hook-shaped body like a beak and “scoops” the cutter. The blade is almost completely covered by the body, providing excellent safety. This type is suitable for unpacking work because it can open a box without cutting its contents. 

3. Grip Type

The blade comes out only when the grip is held. When the grip is released, the blade is retracted into the body. Grip type cutters are suitable for thin rubber sheets, films, and other hard-to-cut materials as well as paper. 

4. Ceramic Blade Type

The cutter blade is made of ceramic and has a rounded blade edge, making it less likely to cause a cut accident even if it comes in contact with the hand. Also, the blade is more durable than the metal blades, so the frequency of blade changes can be reduced. Less frequent blade replacement is one of the measures to reduce accidents. 

5. Type With a Cord Hole to Prevent Falling

A hole is provided at the rear of the main body to which a cord or string can be attached to prevent accidental dropping or loss. 6.

6. Ambidextrous Type

Many models are available for both right-handed and left-handed users. Using the type that matches your dominant hand will also help prevent accidents. 

7. Single-Use Type

Since there is no need to replace the blade, there is no danger of accidental contact with the cutting edge, resulting in a cut or wound.

Other Information on Safety Cutters

1. How to Use Safety Cutters

Even with safety cutters, it is important to use them correctly to reduce the risk of accidents.

1. Do not hold the cutting edge out too far.
2. Use in the correct posture
3. Position your hands in a safe position
4. Work carefully and without haste
5. Use the appropriate type of safety cutter for the object.
6. Return the blade to its proper place of storage after use and dispose of the replacement blade safely and immediately.
7. Replace blades as soon as possible after they become difficult to cut, as this can lead to accidents.